5/9 5. Rhythm and Meter Free Online FlashCards

What is rhythm?

Rhythm is the organization of sounds and silences in time.

What is meter?

Meter is the recurring pattern of strong and weak beats that helps listeners organize rhythm.

What does tempo measure?

Tempo is the speed of the pulse, commonly measured in beats per minute (BPM).

How does a beat divide in simple meter?

In simple meter, each main beat normally divides into two equal parts.

How does a beat divide in compound meter?

In compound meter, each main beat normally divides into three equal parts.

What do the numbers in a simple-meter time signature indicate?

The upper number generally indicates the number of beats per measure, and the lower number identifies the note value receiving the beat.

What is the usual accent pattern in 4/4?

In 4/4, beat 1 is usually strongest, beat 3 is often secondary, and beats 2 and 4 are weaker.

How are the eighth notes usually grouped in 6/8?

6/8 usually groups six eighth notes into two main beats, each containing three eighth-note subdivisions.

How does 3/4 differ from 6/8?

3/4 usually has three main beats divided into two eighth notes each; 6/8 usually has two main beats divided into three eighth notes each.

What is the main rule for beaming notes?

Group notes according to the underlying beat, not merely according to how many notes fit in the measure.

What is syncopation?

Syncopation emphasizes a normally weak part of the meter or carries a note across a stronger beat.

What does a triplet do in simple meter?

A triplet divides a beat that normally divides into two into three equal parts.